21 Summer Potluck Recipes I Always Pick As The Best Dish

Potlucks can feel like a competition, and 21 recipes managed to take the top spot every time. Plates cleared quickly, which is the best review anyone can get. People always asked where the dish came from before even finishing their first serving. That kind of reaction makes it easy to keep choosing the same lineup.

Close-up of a lemon bar with a crumbly, light yellow top layer and a thicker, moist filling resting on a shortbread crust.
Lemon Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Raspberry Cheesecake

A slice of raspberry-topped cheesecake is being lifted from a whole cheesecake with a graham cracker crust.
Raspberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Few desserts stand out quite like this one. Raspberry Cheesecake combines a creamy texture with a fruity kick that keeps guests coming back. It’s the perfect balance between rich and sweet. This dish always ends a meal in the best way possible.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Cheesecake

Pizza Pinwheels

A plate of golden-brown pinwheel pastries filled with tomato sauce and garnished with fresh herbs. A small bowl of sauce is in the background.
Pizza Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pizza-inspired dishes always draw attention, especially in bite-sized forms. Pizza Pinwheels deliver everything you enjoy in pizza but wrapped in a playful, spiralized snack. Kids and adults alike enjoy this dish equally. It’s easy to serve and always popular.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pinwheels

Whipped Feta Dip

A bowl of creamy dip garnished with chopped black olives, sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, rosemary, olive oil, and black pepper.
Whipped Feta Dip. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Dips are always a crowd-pleaser, and this one doesn’t disappoint. Whipped Feta Dip offers a creamy texture that feels light yet indulgent at the same time. It pairs well with pretty much anything on the table. Everyone loves how simple yet bold it feels.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Feta Dip

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Close-up of beef and cheese sliders with toasted buns on a white surface.
Philly Cheesesteak Sliders. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sandwiches are a must-have for gatherings, especially flavorful ones. Philly Cheesesteak Sliders are packed with everything you want in a bite-sized treat. They’re small in size but big in taste. Guests love grabbing these for a quick bite.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Strawberry Earthquake Cake

A slice of cherry-topped cake with a creamy layer, served on a white plate.
Strawberry Earthquake Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Desserts with bold twists tend to make a big impact at gatherings. Strawberry Earthquake Cake impresses with its crumbly and gooey combination that gets everyone talking. The mix of flavors and textures stands out easily. This is always a conversation starter dish.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Earthquake Cake

French Onion Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with a golden-brown breadcrumb crust and garnished with fresh herbs.
French Onion Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Casseroles that pack comfort are always a hit among guests. French Onion Casserole combines smooth layers baked to the golden perfection folks love to share. It’s rich, warm, and works with almost everything else. Pair it with a main dish or enjoy it on its own.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole

Tuna Salad

A bowl of tuna salad mixed with chopped herbs, likely parsley or chives, with a spoon resting inside the bowl.
Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Light yet filling options often grab attention at potlucks. Tuna Salad is one of those dishes everyone appreciates for its simplicity and flavor. It’s perfect for balancing out heavier mains on the table. People enjoy how versatile and fresh it feels without overdoing it.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Salad

Yellow Squash Casserole

Squash casserole being served with a wooden serving spoon.
Yellow Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crowd-pleasers often include baked favorites that showcase vegetables in unique ways. Yellow Squash Casserole takes squash and transforms it into a soft, layered dish with texture throughout. It wins hearts as both a comfort food and a veggie side. This dish bridges hearty and healthy just right.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole

Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Multilayered dishes often stand out thanks to how visually appealing they are. Seven Layer Salad offers a mix of fresh, crisp textures in every colorful layer. Each spoonful is packed with flavor that surprises guests. It’s both simple and creative, making it unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Taco Dip

Glass bowl with layered dip topped with guacamole, sliced jalapeños, black olives, and tomatoes. A tortilla chip is dipping into the bowl.
Taco Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Dips packed with bold flavors never fail to please a crowd. Taco Dip is filled with rich layers that are perfect for dipping or scooping. It’s the dish guests can’t stop hovering around during gatherings. Easy to snack on and always a hit on any table.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip

Corn Casserole

Corn casserole in a casserole dish with a portion removed.
Corn Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Familiar comfort dishes tend to bring smiles to tables. Corn Casserole combines corn’s natural sweetness with a filling, hearty base baked fresh. This dish works whether it’s a side or main. Everyone enjoys how easy it is to add somewhere on their plate.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad on a bed of lettuce, with salad servers resting on top.
Waldorf Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Some dishes combine both sweet and savory in unexpected ways. Waldorf Salad mixes crisp, fresh ingredients with a creative twist that stands apart. It’s light and refreshing yet still memorable. People love how this dish works both as a side or stand-alone choice.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Zucchini Brownies

Several brownies are arranged on parchment paper with crumbs scattered around and a piece of zucchini placed next to them.
Zucchini Brownies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mixing vegetables into desserts is often surprisingly good. Zucchini Brownies deliver a rich taste with a fun secret ingredient twist that intrigues guests. It’s indulgent without going overboard. Unique desserts like this always grab attention.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Brownies

Rice Paper Rolls

Close-up of sliced spring rolls filled with rice, avocado, purple cabbage, and sesame seeds, arranged on a white plate.
Rice Paper Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fresh and handheld dishes bring variety to the meal lineup. Rice Paper Rolls offer a light yet filling option that’s perfect as a quick bite. They feel clean and work well with other items on the potluck table. Guests enjoy their portability and diverse appeal.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Rolls

Fruit Pizza

A close-up of a vibrant fruit tart topped with slices of kiwi, strawberries, mango, grapes, and blueberries arranged in a decorative pattern.
Fruit Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Colorful desserts often add a spark to the potluck spread. Fruit Pizza combines fresh sweetness with the crunch of a pizza-like base. It’s a visually fun and tasty addition to dessert tables. Everyone appreciates how easy it is to share and serve.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Ham and Swiss Sliders

Three ham and cheese sliders on seeded buns are placed on parchment paper. Bright green parsley is visible in the background.
Ham and Swiss Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Small, compact sandwiches make serving and eating simple for guests. Ham and Swiss Sliders bring together bold flavors in a bite-sized package that pleases all ages. They win over crowds with their cheesy, savory punch. It’s hard to find anyone who won’t enjoy this dish.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Swiss Sliders

Matcha Tiramisu

A close-up of a slice of tiramisu topped with green matcha powder, served on a ceramic plate.
Matcha Tiramisu. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Desserts with a twist on tradition always spark interest. Matcha Tiramisu takes the classic Italian dish and blends it with rich matcha flavors. This dessert surprises guests with its unique combination. Those who love trying new foods always flock to try it first.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

Cilantro Lime Rice

Chipotle rice in a bowl with sliced lime and spoons.
Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rice dishes often complement main courses or work well as standalone plates. Cilantro Lime Rice adds freshness with a bold twist that keeps it fun and flavorful. This rice option pairs nicely with meat, dips, or salads. It’s simple, yet far from boring.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Buffalo Chicken Salad

A croissant sandwich filled with buffalo chicken and blue cheese, served on a white plate with celery sticks in the background.
Buffalo Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mixing bold flavors into salads creates something truly memorable. Buffalo Chicken Salad blends spicy elements that make it a centerpiece dish. It’s perfect for those who love heat but still want something balanced. Conversations are bound to start around this one.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad

Maryland Crab Cake

Close-up of golden-brown Maryland crab cakes garnished with herbs on a white plate, complemented by a fresh parsley garnish.
Maryland Crab Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bringing seafood options to potlucks often adds a special touch. Maryland Crab Cake impresses with its soft texture and bold flavor packed into just the right bite. It’s a dish that stands out no matter what’s on the table. Definitely a favorite when done well.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake

Lemon Bars

Close-up of a lemon bar with a crumbly, light yellow top layer and a thicker, moist filling resting on a shortbread crust.
Lemon Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Desserts with fresh flavors often seem to be enjoyed most. Lemon Bars are lightweight, tangy options that feel great after heavier foods. These bite-sized treats are easy to pick up and share among a crowd. They’re reliable hits for dessert tables everywhere.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars

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